Shimla, July 2 -- With the southwest monsoon setting in across Himachal Pradesh and forecasts indicating a prolonged spell of heavy rainfall, devotees gathered at the Radha-Krishna Temple in Ganj Bazaar, Shimla, on Thursday to perform a special Havan (Yagya) and offer prayers seeking divine protection from monsoon-related disasters.

The religious programme, organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Himachal Pradesh Minority Morcha, also featured a community Bhandara. Residents, party workers, and members from different communities participated in large numbers, praying for the safety and well-being of people in Himachal Pradesh as well as across the country.

Participants collectively prayed for protection from excessive rainfall, la...